CLA-2-90:RR:NC:1:119 B83927

Ms. Carol Ann Hoepner
Essential Medical Supply, Inc.
6937-A Stapoint Court
Winter Park, FL 32792-6694

RE: The tariff classification of Walkers from Taiwan

Dear Ms. Hoepner:

In your letter dated March 28, 1997 you requested a tariff classification ruling.

The articles to be imported are standard walkers with rubber tips and wheeled walkers which may have various attachments such as seats, trays and baskets.

The applicable subheading for the walkers will be 9021.19.8500, Harmonized Tariff Schedule of the United States (HTS), which provides for artificial joints and other orthopedic or fracture appliances; parts and accessories thereof... other. The rate of duty will be 2.3 percent.

Walkers are generally used by individuals with a chronic ailment that substantially limits their ability to walk or stand unaided. They are therefore eligible for a free rate of duty as articles specially designed or adapted for the use or benefit of physically or mentally handicapped persons in subheading 9817.00.96, HTS. All applicable entry requirements must be met including the filing of form ITA-362P.

This ruling is being issued under the provisions of Part 177 of the Customs Regulations (19 C.F.R. 177).

A copy of the ruling or the control number indicated above should be provided with the entry documents filed at the time this merchandise is imported. If you have any questions regarding the ruling, contact National Import Specialist Jacques Preston at 212-466-5488.

Sincerely,

Robert B. Swierupski
Chief, Metals & Machinery Branch
National Commodity
Specialist Division